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What you can do about PFAS

PFAS – also known as “forever chemicals” can be harmful to your health. The best way to protect ourselves, and our environment, is to limit and, when possible, eliminate the use of PFAS in the first place. Here are some actions you can take.

When you shop

At home

  • Vacuum often to reduce dust from items sprayed with PFAS fabric protectors.  
  • Don’t reheat food in plastic containers – instead, use containers like microwave-safe glass.  
  • Use cast iron or stainless-steel pans instead of nonstick. 
  • If you have to use a nonstick pan, use it on lower temperatures and try to avoid scratching it.  

Use your voice

  • People have contacted retailers, manufacturers, and elected officials to ask for PFAS-free products. 
  • In response to pressure from the public and public health groups, Washington State is banning PFAS in certain products. Soon, products like these will no longer have PFAS in Washington: 
    • Cosmetics 
    • Carpets 
    • Stain-resistant sprays 
    • Paper-based takeout food packaging 
    • Most clothing apparel 
    • Cleaning products 
    • Automotive washes 

Testing your drinking water for PFAS

If you are on a private drinking water source, it’s important to test your water to ensure it’s not contaminated. The Washington State Department of Health (DOH) has resources for drinking water concerns on its PFAS webpage.  

If you find your drinking water contains PFAS, DOH has a guide for Home Water Treatment for PFAS that’s also available in these languages: 

DOH also has a document with point-of-use water filter options. These brands are third-party certified to reduce PFAS in home drinking water. This document is available in these languages: 

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